Comments

Given the life expectancy of the panels is probably >20 years, the advantages of covering the panels may be in direct proportion to the length of time they are covered, merely speculation, granted the batteries can sit for periods without changing, from my understanding LiPo4 are better not to be on a consistent charge when not cycled, so the question may be, is it better to cover the panels to preserve the battery. Alternatively simply disconnect the charging source and absorb the loss in life expectancy, of the panels , which is probably minimal.

I've heard that in general, LiPo batteries should be partially discharged before being stored for a long time. I know that's true for the small ones (not LiFePo4's) because I've got a few drone batteries that are almost useless after being stored for 9 months while fully charged. Do LiFePo4's behave the same way?

I bring my panels in each year. They sit under a tree and it is just to chancy in winter. I only got a couple years left in doing that. Grid tie panels are getting heavy. If my neighbors each would just cut down a tree I could mount them on the garage.